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A delicious, one-dish baked casserole combining shredded chicken, rice, beans, and classic Mexican-inspired fajita spices. Naturally gluten-free and perfect for a quick, comforting family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup finely diced onion
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice (or white rice as an alternative)
  • 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels
  • 1 (14-ounce) can low sodium black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 5 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
  • 1 (4-ounce) can mild green chilies
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Finely dice 1/2 cup onion and 1 red bell pepper.
  3. Rinse and drain the 14-ounce can of black beans.
  4. In a large baking dish, toss the diced onion, diced bell pepper, 1 cup uncooked parboiled rice, 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if using).
  5. Whisk together 3 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth, 4 ounces chopped mild green chilies, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, and 1 tablespoon olive oil until smooth.
  6. Pour the broth mixture over the rice and vegetable mixture and stir to combine.
  7. Add 5 cups shredded cooked chicken, drained black beans, and 1 cup frozen corn; stir to distribute evenly.
  8. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 65–70 minutes, or until most liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Start checking at 65 minutes and gently stir if the mixture looks soupy.
  9. Remove foil and evenly sprinkle 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the casserole.
  10. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese melts and turns slightly golden.
  11. Remove from oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes to allow remaining moisture to absorb into the rice.

Notes

Ovens vary; check doneness starting at 65 minutes and stir gently if the casserole appears wet, then continue baking as needed., Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a shortcut., Substitute fajita seasoning with taco seasoning if desired., Serve as a burrito bowl or wrap in tortillas with favorite toppings., Toppings suggestions include sour cream, chopped green onions, black olives, fresh salsa, refried beans, diced jalapeños, avocado or guacamole, enchilada sauce, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, crushed tortilla chips, and hot sauce., For variations, swap chicken for ground beef or other proteins, make vegetarian by adding chickpeas or meat alternatives, or go dairy-free by omitting or substituting cheese.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://theproteincook.com/easy-chicken-burrito-casserole/